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PCM-2855+

PC/104+ isolated 4*RS485 module
  • Manufacturer Adlink Technology Inc.
  • Category: PC/104
  • The ADLINK PCM-2855+ is a PC/104+ form factor serial communication module designed to provide four isolated RS-422/RS-485 ports for industrial and embedded applications. It supports high-speed serial communication up to 115,200 bps, features 16C550A-compatible UARTs with 16-byte FIFOs, and offers 2500 Vrms isolation for robust and noise-immune data transmission. The module is ideal for use in industrial automation, data acquisition, and embedded control systems requiring reliable multi-port serial connectivity.
- PC/104+ Standard Interface:
Fully compliant with the PC/104+ (PCI-based) bus architecture, enabling stackable embedded system integration.

- Four Isolated Communication Ports:
Provides four independent RS-422/RS-485 serial ports, each with galvanic isolation up to 500 VDC (typical) or 2500 Vrms (maximum), ensuring protection against ground loops and electrical noise.

- RS-422/RS-485 Selectable:
Each port can be configured via DIP switch or software to operate in RS-422 or RS-485 mode, offering flexibility for various serial communication standards.

- Auto Direction Flow Control:
Built-in automatic direction control for RS-485 communication eliminates the need for manual RTS signal handling, simplifying half-duplex communication.

- High-Speed Communication:
Supports baud rates from 50 to 115,200 bps per port, allowing concurrent high-speed data transmission across all channels.

- Intelligent UART Buffering:
Each port uses a 16C550A-compatible UART with a 16-byte FIFO buffer, reducing CPU overhead and improving data throughput.

- Multi-Card System Support:
Up to 4 PCM-2855+ modules (16 ports total) can be installed in a single system, with shared IRQ support for efficient resource utilization.

- Wide OS Compatibility:
Supports multiple operating systems including DOS, Windows 95/98, Windows NT, and QNX. Linux and UNIX drivers are available via ADLINK’s website.

- Industrial-Grade Design:
Designed for embedded and industrial environments, with an operating temperature range of 0°C to 55°C and humidity tolerance up to 95% non-condensing.

Country of origin: Taiwan R.O.C.

Customs tariff number: 8473 3020 000

Comprehensive Product Summary – ADLINK PCM-2855+ PC/104+ Isolated 4-Port RS-422/RS-485 Communication Module




### 1. Product Overview

Product Name: PCM-2855+
Model Number: PCM-2855+
Series: PC/104+ Serial Communication Module Series
Article Number: PCM-2855+
Manufacturer: ADLINK Technology Inc.
Part Number: 50-16001-100
Manual Revision: Rev. 1.00 (March 29, 2002)

Product Description:
The ADLINK PCM-2855+ is a PC/104+ form factor serial communication module designed to provide four isolated RS-422/RS-485 ports for industrial and embedded applications. It supports high-speed serial communication up to 115,200 bps, features 16C550A-compatible UARTs with 16-byte FIFOs, and offers 2500 Vrms isolation for robust and noise-immune data transmission. The module is ideal for use in industrial automation, data acquisition, and embedded control systems requiring reliable multi-port serial connectivity.




### 2. Key Features

- PC/104+ Standard Interface:
Fully compliant with the PC/104+ (PCI-based) bus architecture, enabling stackable embedded system integration.

- Four Isolated Communication Ports:
Provides four independent RS-422/RS-485 serial ports, each with galvanic isolation up to 500 VDC (typical) or 2500 Vrms (maximum), ensuring protection against ground loops and electrical noise.

- RS-422/RS-485 Selectable:
Each port can be configured via DIP switch or software to operate in RS-422 or RS-485 mode, offering flexibility for various serial communication standards.

- Auto Direction Flow Control:
Built-in automatic direction control for RS-485 communication eliminates the need for manual RTS signal handling, simplifying half-duplex communication.

- High-Speed Communication:
Supports baud rates from 50 to 115,200 bps per port, allowing concurrent high-speed data transmission across all channels.

- Intelligent UART Buffering:
Each port uses a 16C550A-compatible UART with a 16-byte FIFO buffer, reducing CPU overhead and improving data throughput.

- Multi-Card System Support:
Up to 4 PCM-2855+ modules (16 ports total) can be installed in a single system, with shared IRQ support for efficient resource utilization.

- Wide OS Compatibility:
Supports multiple operating systems including DOS, Windows 95/98, Windows NT, and QNX. Linux and UNIX drivers are available via ADLINK’s website.

- Industrial-Grade Design:
Designed for embedded and industrial environments, with an operating temperature range of 0°C to 55°C and humidity tolerance up to 95% non-condensing.




### 3. Technical Specifications

| Parameter | Specification |
|----------------|-------------------|
| Bus Interface | PC/104+ (PCI-based) |
| Serial Controller | 16C550A-compatible UART |
| Clock Frequency | 1.8432 MHz to 7.3728 MHz |
| Number of Ports | 4 isolated RS-422/RS-485 ports |
| Isolation Voltage | 500 VDC (typical), up to 2500 Vrms maximum |
| Baud Rate Range | 50 to 115,200 bps per port |
| Flow Control | RS-485 automatic direction control |
| System I/O Mapping | Shared IRQ |
| Maximum Modules per System | 4 modules (16 ports total) |
| Connectors | 40-pin box header (female), 4-port pin header, DB9 via flat cable |
| Cable Assembly | Flat cable with four DB9 male connectors (C409M) |
| Power Supply | +5 VDC @ 1400 mA (typical) |
| Dimensions | 160 mm × 100 mm (6.3 in × 3.9 in), 3U form factor |
| Operating Temperature | 0°C to 55°C |
| Storage Temperature | -20°C to 65°C |
| Humidity | 10% to 95%, non-condensing |
| Operating Systems Supported | DOS, Windows 95/98/NT, QNX, Linux, UNIX |
| Isolation Type | Galvanic isolation between ports and system bus |




### 4. Functionality

Operational Overview:
The PCM-2855+ provides four independent serial communication channels that can be configured as RS-422 or RS-485 interfaces. Each channel is isolated to prevent electrical interference and protect connected devices. The module communicates with the host system via the PC/104+ PCI bus, allowing for stackable embedded configurations without backplane wiring.

Use Cases and Applications:
- Industrial automation and control systems
- Data acquisition and monitoring
- Embedded system communication interfaces
- Machine-to-machine (M2M) communication
- SCADA and process control networks
- Serial device networking in harsh environments

Compatibility:
The PCM-2855+ is compatible with PC/104+ host boards and can be stacked with other PC/104+ modules. It supports shared IRQ operation and can coexist with other serial or I/O expansion modules.




### 5. Components & Accessories

Included Items:
- PCM-2855+ module
- Four flat cables for port extension
- Manual and Software Utility CD-ROM

Connectors:
- 40-pin Box Header (female): Provides signal interface for all four ports.
- DB9 Connectors (via flat cable): Standard RS-422/RS-485 pinout for external device connection.
- Rotary Switch: Used for bus signal configuration (CLK, IDSEL, INT, REQ, GNT).
- DIP Switches: Used for card number and port mode (RS-422/RS-485) selection.

Optional Accessories:
- Additional flat cables or DB9 breakout cables
- PC/104+ stack mounting hardware
- External isolation adapters (if required for higher voltage environments)




### 6. Installation & Setup

Pre-Installation Handling:
- Handle the module on a grounded anti-static mat.
- Use an anti-static wrist strap connected to the same ground point.
- Inspect for physical damage before installation.
- Do not apply power if the module appears damaged.

Mounting:
- The PCM-2855+ is designed for PC/104+ stack installation.
- Align the PC/104+ connectors with the host board and secure using standoffs.
- Ensure correct rotary switch position according to the module slot.

Rotary Switch Configuration:
The rotary switch selects the appropriate PCI bus signals (CLK, IDSEL, INT, REQ, GNT) based on the module’s position in the stack.

| Rotary Switch Position | Module Slot | CLK | IDSEL | INT | REQ | GNT |
|-----------------------------|-----------------|----------|------------|----------|----------|----------|
| 0 or 4 | Slot 1 | CLK0 | IDSEL0 | INTA | REQ0* | GNT0* |
| 1 or 5 | Slot 2 | CLK1 | IDSEL1 | INTB | REQ1* | GNT1* |
| 2 or 6 | Slot 3 | CLK2 | IDSEL2 | INTC | REQ2* | GNT2* |
| 3 or 7 | Slot 4 | CLK3 | IDSEL3 | INTD | REQ2* | GNT2* |

*Note:* Slots 3 and 4 share REQ2/GNT2 and cannot both be bus master devices.

DIP Switch Settings:
- SW1-3: Card number selection (0–7)
- Port Select Switches: Configure each port for RS-422 or RS-485 mode.

Connector Pin Assignments:
- 40-pin Box Header: Provides all TX/RX and differential signal lines for four ports.
- DB9 Connector (per port):

| Pin | Signal |
|----------|------------|
| 1 | 485_D– |
| 2 | 422_RXD+ |
| 3 | 422_TXD+ |
| 4 | 422_TXD– |
| 5 | GND |
| 6 | 422_RXD– |
| 8 | 485_D+ |

Software Installation:
- Windows NT: Install via Control Panel → Network → Add Adapter → “Other” → specify driver path.
- Windows 95/98: Plug-and-play detection; follow prompts to assign COM port numbers.
- UNIX/Linux/QNX: Drivers available as downloadable `.tar` packages from ADLINK’s website.

Multi-Card Configuration:
- Up to two identical cards can be installed in one system.
- Use switch ON/OFF settings to differentiate COM port numbering.
- Ensure non-overlapping COM port assignments.




### 7. Performance & Capabilities

Data Throughput:
Each port supports full-duplex RS-422 or half-duplex RS-485 communication up to 115,200 bps. The 16-byte FIFO buffer per UART minimizes CPU load and ensures stable data flow even under high-speed operation.

Isolation & Protection:
Each port is galvanically isolated from the system bus, providing up to 500 VDC isolation (2500 Vrms maximum). This protects both the host system and connected devices from voltage surges, ground loops, and EMI interference.

System Capacity:
- Up to 4 PCM-2855+ modules per system (16 ports total).
- Shared IRQ support allows efficient resource allocation.
- Compatible with other PC/104+ I/O modules.

Power Efficiency:
Consumes approximately 1.4 A at +5 VDC, optimized for embedded systems with limited power budgets.

Limitations:
- Maximum baud rate limited to 115,200 bps.
- Operating temperature range limited to 0–55°C (not suitable for extreme environments without additional cooling).
- Shared REQ/GNT lines restrict simultaneous bus mastering for modules in slots 3 and 4.




### 8. Standards & Compliance

- Bus Standard: PC/104+ (PCI-based)
- Electrical Compliance: PCI signal compatibility (excluding 64-bit extensions, JTAG, PRSNT, CLKRUN)
- Isolation Standard: 2500 Vrms isolation rating
- Environmental Compliance: Designed for industrial operating conditions (0–55°C, 10–95% RH)
- Software Compatibility: Compliant with major operating systems (Windows, DOS, QNX, Linux, UNIX)
- Regulatory Compliance: Meets general industrial EMC and safety standards applicable to PC/104+ modules (manufacturer’s standard compliance)




### 9. Additional Information

Warranty:
Standard ADLINK limited warranty (typically one year) covering manufacturing defects and hardware failures under normal operating conditions.

Technical Support:
- Driver downloads, software updates, and documentation available from ADLINK’s official website.
- Regional technical support and RMA services provided through authorized distributors.

Maintenance:
- Periodic inspection recommended for connector integrity and cable wear.
- Keep module free from dust and moisture.
- Avoid exposure to static discharge during handling.

Firmware & Software Updates:
- Updated drivers and utilities available for Windows and Linux platforms.
- Compatibility maintained with legacy operating systems for long-term embedded deployments.

Documentation & Resources:
- User Manual (Rev. 1.00)
- Software Utility CD-ROM
- Online driver packages and installation guides




### Summary

The ADLINK PCM-2855+ is a robust, industrial-grade PC/104+ communication module offering four isolated RS-422/RS-485 serial ports. With its 16C550A-compatible UARTs, automatic RS-485 direction control, and high-speed operation up to 115.2 kbps, it provides reliable and flexible serial connectivity for embedded and industrial systems. The module’s galvanic isolation, shared IRQ capability, and multi-card support make it ideal for scalable, noise-resistant communication networks in automation, control, and data acquisition environments.

Its compliance with PC/104+ standards ensures seamless integration into stackable embedded systems, while broad OS support and available driver packages simplify deployment across diverse platforms. The PCM-2855+ exemplifies ADLINK’s commitment to providing high-performance, reliable, and configurable communication solutions for industrial computing applications.